As multiple investigations unfold following the tragic deaths of two members of its men’s basketball program, Ateneo de Manila University remains undecided on its participation in UAAP Season 89, focusing instead on supporting affected families, assisting authorities, and seeking answers surrounding the incident.
MANILA, Philippines — Ateneo de Manila University has not yet reached a decision on whether it will participate in UAAP Season 89 as multiple investigations continue into the tragic incident that claimed the lives of two members of its men’s basketball program.
University president Fr. Roberto Yap, SJ, said the institution’s immediate focus remains on cooperating with ongoing inquiries rather than making decisions about future competition.
According to Yap, discussions regarding Ateneo’s status in the upcoming UAAP season have not progressed, as authorities and independent investigators continue gathering information related to the incident.
The tragedy occurred during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, on June 8, where team members Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili lost their lives. In the aftermath, the Blue Eagles withdrew from the ongoing FilOil Preseason Cup. Ateneo had played only one game in the tournament, recording a 72-52 victory over Adamson University on June 6 before suspending its campaign.
Yap emphasized that the university community is still mourning the loss of Adili and Baterbonia, while players and staff continue to cope with the emotional impact of the incident. He noted that returning to competition immediately would not be appropriate given the circumstances.
At the same time, Ateneo has pledged full cooperation with all ongoing investigations. The university is working with an independent fact-finding team, the UAAP, and government agencies examining the events surrounding the team-building activity.
The fact-finding process is expected to take at least two weeks as investigators conduct a comprehensive review. University administrators, coaching personnel, and other individuals connected to the program may be interviewed as part of the inquiry.
The UAAP has launched its own investigation and is coordinating with relevant government agencies. League officials said they will carefully evaluate the findings of various probes before determining whether any disciplinary action is warranted.
In a statement, the UAAP stressed that sanctions may be imposed if violations of established rules, laws, or regulations are confirmed. However, the league emphasized that any action would be subject to due process and existing governance procedures.
UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rene Saguisag also clarified that decisions involving preventive suspensions, temporary withdrawal, or a leave of absence from league activities ultimately rest with the institution concerned.
Beyond the UAAP investigation, the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) has initiated a separate probe. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has likewise begun proceedings related to the incident.
The developments have already led to significant changes within the Ateneo basketball program. Former head coach Tab Baldwin and team manager Christopher “Epok” Quimpo have stepped down from their respective positions. Reports indicated that both officials did not appear before authorities after subpoenas were issued earlier this week.
As investigations continue, uncertainty remains over Ateneo’s participation in the next UAAP season, which is scheduled to begin in September. For now, university officials maintain that their priority is supporting affected families, assisting investigators, and ensuring a thorough examination of the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
The outcome of the various inquiries is expected to play a crucial role in determining the future direction of the university’s basketball program and its involvement in collegiate competition in the months ahead.
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